Salmon calcitonin

Calcitonin has a specific role in prevention and treatment of osteoporotic fractures. Calcitonin is a hormone that is synthesized and secreted by the thyroid gland. The circulating level of ionized calcium controls calcitonin release. Treatment of osteoporosis with calcitonin was approved by the FDA in 1985 (Fatourechi & Health, 1987). Calcitonin therapy suppresses bone loss and in some cases increases bone mass. Since intranasal and suppository routes are not approved in the United States, the primary route of administration is subcutaneous. In increasing incidence, nurses are teaching patients to self-administer this medication. This article describes the purpose, action, and outcomes of calcitonin therapy and the required education needed by patients receiving this medication.